Barouk Forest - Antenna Loop

Another loop through the biggest reserve of Lebanon. El Chouf cedar reserve constitutes nearly 5% of Lebanon's area and the biggest cedar forest of the country.
From El Barouk entrance we started our hike, quickly take the mountain's trail parallel to the asphalt road. Beautiful foot path and steady ascent till the asphalt road again. Once there, take little breath under the mighty cedars trees then continue to Marj El Kaak and Massyaf el Mir through a half rounded passage. Follow the path in the forest, enjoy the fresh air or little snack there.

Once finished, little up from the car parking take your left on the beautiful panoramic trail for about half a kilometer, then leave off the trail and go up to the top of hill. Short but heavy ascent. On top you will have the best view you can ask for.
Follow the direction to the antenna tower, some parts of terrain are hard and rocky.
Once there, follow the dirt road near and check the amazing view of Qaraoun Lake - Mount Hermon and the west Bekaa. We were not so lucky and view was not so clear.
To go back, follow the dirt road that leads you finally to the lake. In this part I go off road again for a rocky hard descent but it is optional to leave or stay on the road.

From the lake, we took the passage beautifully marked with stones that led us finally to the asphalt road and then to the car. This part of the hike is amazing, It gave us the feeling of being thankful to all volunteers and crew members who built, marked, maintained those trails and most important keep them always clean.

A very pleasant and highly recommended hike, the difficulty ranges between moderate to difficult depending on physical and fitness level.

Do your duty to keep nature a beauty and always be kind to everything that lives :)